Spring Break in Vancouver: What to Do

While some parents might panic at the prospect of entertaining the troops for up to two long weeks, Vancouver savvy moms know that the problem isn't finding stuff to do, it's finding time to cram it all in.

Put your hands up, and check out the Vancouver Police Museum's CSI Training camp, where kids 8–13 years old will learn about everything from fingerprinting to forensics. It promises to be an arresting experience.

Whether it's LEGO, Dr. Seuss or Cinderella, Chapters Indigo has something for every child during the week of March 16-20. We're loving on the Dr. Seuss (extra silly) Storytime for the littles, and the LEGO Swapathon and Make-and-Take session for our budding engineers. The kids are unplugged and engaging in some creative play, and we're fans.

Kids can get their hands wet at The Vancouver Aquarium's Aquacamps for ages 4-12. Incredibly popular for little dolphin lovers, there are still spots available. But sign up soon to avoid disappointment.

For movies that will both fascinate and educate you, head to the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre. Its new feature is Dynamic Earth, which screens weekdays at 1 pm. Narrated by Liam Neeson (swoon), his voice will engage you as much as the content.

Experience the interconnected wonders of nature at UBC's new Beaty Biodiversity Museum. Watch their jaws drop when they stand face-to-face with Canada's largest blue whale skeleton—85 feet long! The kids will also enjoy scavenger hunts, crafts and other fun hands-on activities.

Exercise the right sides of their brains at Collage Collage with a week of CRAFTERNOONS, where the 5- to 8-year-old set can experience painting, drawing and collage in an intimate and inspiring setting, while you can grab a coffee and a double baked almond croissant at neighbouring Matchstick Coffee.

If they can walk, they can snowshoe. Squeeze the last bit of winter out of Vancouver and warm up at the Alpine Lodge afterwards.

Explore Burnaby Village Museum searching for clues and when you think you're done, stop in at the General Store to see if you've earned a prize.

Spring into action at the BC Sports Hall of Fame and head to the Participation Zone. Tire them out on the rotating climbing wall, timed running track, soccer shoot out and more!

If an outing to the theatre is more to your taste, the Waterfront Theatre on Granville Island will surely perk up any rainy day for your family. The Carousel Theatre for Young People is big on expressive, imaginative theatre for the littles, and there's always something going on.

For some relaxation, get the kids centred at YogaButtons Studio. Their five-day camp encourages playful imagination and active bodies through yoga, crafts, stories and games. We like that they also provide the kids with a healthy snack and juice, and little yogis will love the Yogabuttons tank or tee that is included with registration.